Fiction Writing

Semester and Year	FA 2010
Course Number	WRTNG-UG1550
Section	001
Instructor	Lara Vapnyar
Days	Mon
Time	3:30 PM - 6:10 PM
Units	4.0
Level	U
Foundation Requirement

Description

This course provides students interested in writing fiction an opportunity to explore (and practice) various forms of fiction—short story, flash fiction, novel, and graphic novel—in a workshop environment. The main objective of the course is to help students develop their individual styles and voices and to make them aware of the various techniques available to them. Every aspect of the craft of writing fiction is examined: point of view, narrative voice, plot, tension, time, sequence, crisis, resolution, dialogue, symbolism, etc. Students are taught to look at texts from the unique perspective of a fellow writer and encouraged to become part of a community of writers where they will work with their peers in a safe, honest and considerate environment. Students will present their own fiction, respond to the writings of others, and pose questions about literature, editing, and publishing. The workshop group and instructor provide a supportive audience that listens and responds to the work of each member. Students will be required to write either two short stories, or a short story and a chapter from a novel, or a short story and several pieces of flash fiction. The reading assignments will include selections from old and contemporary authors such as Chekhov, Joyce, Borges, Alice Munro, George Saunders, Edward P. Jones, Junot Diaz, Marjane Satrapi.

Course Type

Advanced Writing Courses (WRTNG-UG)